Here’s a simple way of mounting a tripod on the hull that suits the smaller POV cameras such as the GoPro Hero HD.It has worked well on the stern and could also be used at the bow or even the ama.

Nylon cupboard door hinges are the main items needed. They are cheap but strong and once threaded with bungee and a cord lock can hold a small tripod effectively.

Using the tripod feet as a template I positioned the hinges on the hull. Self tappers screwed straight into the hull are holding well so far. If they loosen I would throughbolt.

The hinges when folded act as an effective stop for the tripod legs. The bungee/cord lock allows for a quick release. An extra bungee attached to the rear padeye (via a twisted shackle and carabiner) and up to the tripod brace provides a downforce and gives extra stability

I tether the whole assembly just in case but it has been hit by waves and has not moved.The rudder can still be retracted OK.I am working on an extension that will give more of a side view to mix up the camera angles. A rotating remote controlled head (using a small battery screwdriver) is also on my to do list!

Last edited by stringy on Wed Aug 25, 2010 6:46 pm, edited 1 time in total.

Cool looking, but that tripod is not going to last long in salt/sand conditions.

If you simply replace the rudder bungee cleats with hobie padeyes you could basically rig the same 3 point system and not have to drill ANY holes in your hull, (particularly the stern, which is frequently under water). Protecting the hull from the tripod legs would just require rubber feet or such.

These GoPros don't require THAT much support do they?

Of course, if you wanted to mount a heavier, traditional HD handycam on your Hobie, that tripod would be the only way to go!

It's certainly not the weight of the camera that's the issue, it's the sturdiness of the whole assembly that's required. If you look at the quality of the video that comes from this setup, you'll see that the tripod and connections are fit for purpose.

Slaughter is spot on as always. The tripod provides the stable and versatile platform that was lacking in my earlier PVC tube mount.It also converts easily into a small steady pole mount with handy leveling bubble.I chose this small tripod because it is made from anodised aluminium and plastic. I have soaked it in Lanox. The few steel screws that are in it can be replaced with stainless when needed.

PSRR- Thanks!CGM- BBQ? I'll leave that to you and Slaughter.Max- Been there done that! (with my Oasis)I don't think the AI/TI needs another mast -but now you mention it.........

Stringy, love it!Are you sure you just didn't pull the rudder up too hard?I mounted my GoPro on top of a pole mounted stern light on my Fulmar...the light is attached to my rudder...when I tack or gybe I get kind of a sweeping view of the boat...

Thanks for that Ron.Great video of an amazing craft. Someone at Hobie must have owned a Fulmar at some stage! I'd like to be able to pan and get shots of AI's next to me or landscapes that I pass.The rudder mount wouldn't work for that (turn rudder to subject -crash! ) so I'll keep working on a motor mount.